Cologne, located in western Germany along the Rhine River, is a city renowned for its impressive Gothic architecture, vibrant arts scene, and rich history. For those considering things to do in Cologne, visiting the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest cathedrals in Europe, and exploring the charming Old Town with its colorful houses and ancient Roman walls are top activities.
The city’s numerous museums, such as the Ludwig Museum, which houses a significant collection of modern art, and the Fragrance Museum, which tells the story of the famous Eau de Cologne, offer diverse cultural experiences. The Hohenzollern Bridge, adorned with thousands of love locks, provides a romantic view of the cityscape and the river.
Beyond its architectural and cultural landmarks, Cologne is known for its lively atmosphere, particularly during the Carnival season, which transforms the city into a hub of festivities. For those exploring the best places to visit in Germany, Cologne’s blend of historical grandeur, artistic richness, and festive spirit makes it a captivating destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Cologne, Germany
1. Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)
The Cologne Cathedral, a towering Gothic masterpiece, is not only Cologne’s most famous landmark but also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its intricate facade, stunning stained glass windows, and the Shrine of the Three Kings make it a must-visit.
Location: Cologne city center, near the main train station.
Scenic Spot: Gothic architecture with breathtaking stained glass windows and panoramic city views from the tower.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid large crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but the 533-step climb to the top may be challenging for the elderly or those with mobility issues.
Price: Free to enter; €6 for access to the tower.
Travel Tip: Climbing the 533 steps to the top of the south tower offers a breathtaking view of the city and the Rhine River.
2. Old Town (Altstadt)
Cologne’s picturesque Old Town, with its charming narrow streets and traditional old houses, offers a glimpse into the city’s past. The area is also known for its vibrant squares, historical monuments, and the Old Market.
Location: Cologne city center, near the Rhine River.
Scenic Spot: Colorful historic houses, traditional breweries, cobbled streets, and vibrant squares.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for a lively atmosphere and a taste of Kölsch beer in a local brewery.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though some cobblestone streets may be difficult for strollers.
Price: Free to explore; food and drinks vary.
Travel Tip: Explore the many breweries in the Old Town to taste Kölsch, the local beer, and enjoy traditional Cologne dishes.
3. Hohenzollern Bridge
Famous for its thousands of ‘love locks’, the Hohenzollern Bridge is not only a vital transport route but also a symbol of love and commitment. The bridge offers a great view of the Cologne Cathedral and the Rhine river.
Location: Spanning the Rhine River, connecting the city center with Deutz.
Scenic Spot: Iconic bridge known for thousands of love locks and stunning views of Cologne Cathedral.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset for romantic city views.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though it can be crowded during peak hours.
Price: Free to walk across.
Travel Tip: Bring a padlock to add to the collection and immortalize your visit.
4. Chocolate Museum (Schokoladenmuseum)
The Chocolate Museum, located on the banks of the Rhine, provides an indulgent experience as you learn about the history and production of chocolate. It includes a greenhouse with cocoa trees and a chocolate fountain.
Location: Rheinauhafen district, along the Rhine River.
Scenic Spot: Interactive chocolate exhibits, a greenhouse with cacao trees, and a flowing chocolate fountain.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid school groups.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, perfect for children and chocolate lovers.
Price: €14.50 for adults, €9 for children (ages 6-18).
Travel Tip: Be sure to try some fresh chocolate from the fountain and check out the museum shop for unique chocolate varieties.
5. Ludwig Museum
The Ludwig Museum is renowned for its collection of modern art, including a significant number of works by Picasso. It also displays American pop art and a collection of Russian avant-garde.
Location: Near Cologne Cathedral in the city center.
Scenic Spot: Modern art collections, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and Lichtenstein.
Best Time to Visit: First Thursday of the month (free entry after 5 PM).
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but more engaging for art enthusiasts.
Price: €13 for adults, €8.50 for students, free for children under 18.
Travel Tip: Visit on the first Thursday of the month when the museum stays open late and entry is free after 5 pm.
6. Cologne’s Beer Culture
Cologne is famous for its unique beer culture centered around Kölsch, a light and refreshing beer. The city is dotted with traditional breweries where you can enjoy Kölsch in a unique setting.
Location: Various traditional breweries across the Old Town.
Scenic Spot: Authentic Cologne beer halls serving Kölsch in small glasses with a lively atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for the best experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for adults; children can accompany families but will not be served alcohol.
Price: Free to enter; €2-€3 per Kölsch glass.
Travel Tip: Join a brewery tour to learn more about the brewing process and the history of Kölsch in Cologne.
7. Rheinpark
Rheinpark is a beautifully landscaped park along the Rhine River, offering a perfect spot for a leisurely walk, picnic, or just to relax and enjoy the views.
Location: Along the Rhine River, near the Cologne Messe/Deutz area.
Scenic Spot: Beautiful green spaces, fountains, and views of the city skyline.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for picnics and relaxation.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, perfect for families, children, and seniors.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Take the cable car across the Rhine for stunning views of the city and the park.
8. Cologne Triangle
For one of the best panoramic views of Cologne, including the Cathedral and the Old Town, head to the observation deck of the Cologne Triangle, a high-rise building across the Rhine.
Location: Across the Rhine from Cologne Cathedral in the Deutz district.
Scenic Spot: Observation deck with panoramic views of the city and the river.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset for a spectacular view of Cologne’s skyline.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, accessible by elevator.
Price: €5 for adults, €3 for children.
Travel Tip: Visit during sunset for a spectacular view as the city lights begin to twinkle.
9. Belgian Quarter
The Belgian Quarter is a trendy neighborhood in Cologne, known for its vibrant atmosphere, stylish boutiques, and diverse restaurants and bars.
Location: West of Cologne city center, near Rudolfplatz.
Scenic Spot: Trendy neighborhood with boutique shops, street art, and stylish cafes.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for nightlife or daytime for boutique shopping.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for young adults and culture enthusiasts.
Price: Free to explore; shopping and dining costs vary.
Travel Tip: This area is perfect for experiencing Cologne’s contemporary culture and is especially lively during the evening.
10. Roman-Germanic Museum
The Roman-Germanic Museum showcases Cologne’s ancient past, with a large collection of Roman artifacts, including the famous Dionysus mosaic and a reconstructed tomb from the Roman era.
Location: Next to Cologne Cathedral.
Scenic Spot: Ancient Roman artifacts, including the famous Dionysus mosaic and Roman glassware.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for a quieter experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though younger children may find it less engaging.
Price: €6 for adults, €4 for students, free for children under 18.
Travel Tip: The museum is a must for history enthusiasts and is best visited before or after exploring the Cathedral, as it’s located right next to it.
11. Fragrance Museum Farina-House
The Fragrance Museum in the Farina-House, the birthplace of Eau de Cologne, offers a fascinating journey into the world of scents and the history of the famous Cologne fragrance.
Location: Near Wallraf-Richartz Museum in the Old Town.
Scenic Spot: Historic birthplace of Eau de Cologne with guided tours on perfume-making.
Best Time to Visit: Midday for a guided tour experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but more engaging for adults interested in perfume and history.
Price: €5 for adults, €3 for students, free for children under 10.
Travel Tip: A guided tour of the museum provides an insightful look into the history of perfume making.
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Cologne, Germany: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Cologne: 8/10 – Cologne is highly family-friendly, offering a wide range of activities for children. The Cologne Zoo and the adjacent Flora Botanical Garden are major attractions. The Odysseum Science Adventure museum and the Phantasialand amusement park, just outside the city, are also popular with families. Parks such as Rheinpark provide ample space for outdoor play.
Nightlife in Cologne: 9/10 – Cologne has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city’s nightlife is particularly known for its traditional Kölsch beer pubs in the Altstadt (Old Town) and trendy clubs in the Belgian Quarter. The city also hosts various cultural events and festivals, including the famous Cologne Carnival, which greatly enhances the nightlife experience.
Sport in Cologne: 8/10 – Cologne offers excellent sports facilities and outdoor activities. The RheinEnergieStadion is home to the 1. FC Köln football team. The city has numerous parks for jogging, cycling, and outdoor sports. The Rheinauhafen area along the Rhine River is popular for running and inline skating. Cologne also offers many gyms, swimming pools, and facilities for sports like tennis and rowing.
Culture and Attractions in Cologne: 10/10 – Cologne is rich in cultural and historical attractions, including the iconic Cologne Cathedral (a UNESCO World Heritage site), the Roman-Germanic Museum, and the Museum Ludwig. The city’s historical old town, with its charming narrow streets and beautiful churches, adds to its cultural appeal. Cologne hosts numerous cultural festivals throughout the year, such as the Cologne Lights and Art Cologne, making it a cultural hub.
Gastronomy in Cologne: 8/10 – Cologne offers a diverse culinary scene with numerous restaurants serving traditional Rhineland cuisine and international dishes. The city’s culinary highlights include hearty dishes like Himmel un Ääd and Kölsch beer. Cologne has a variety of eateries, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments, providing a wide range of dining experiences.
Shopping in Cologne: 8/10 – Shopping in Cologne includes a mix of high-end boutiques, local artisan shops, and modern shopping centers like the Rhein-Center and the Galeria Kaufhof. The Schildergasse and Hohe Straße are two of the busiest shopping streets in Germany, offering a wide range of fashion stores, department stores, and specialty shops.
Prices in Cologne: 7/10 – Cologne is moderately priced, offering a range of options for accommodation, dining, and shopping. The city provides good value for money, with choices to suit different budgets.
Average price for a hotel night: 110 €
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 15 €
Price of a beer: 3.50 €
Price of a coffee: 2.50 €
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Cologne, Germany
For those looking to explore beyond Cologne’s Gothic spires, top day trips near Cologne offer a mix of cultural and natural attractions. The ancient Roman ruins in Xanten and the idyllic landscapes of the Bergisches Land provide fascinating diversions from the city’s hustle and bustle, each easily reached for an enriching day out.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Cologne accommodations range from luxury riverside hotels with stunning views of the Cologne Cathedral to cozy, family-run hotels in the lively Belgian Quarter, ensuring every guest enjoys both comfort and convenience in this vibrant Rhineland city.
FAQ About Things to Do in Cologne, Germany
What are the top attractions to visit in Cologne?
Cologne’s top attractions include the Cologne Cathedral, the Hohenzollern Bridge, the Ludwig Museum, and the charming Old Town.
Can I take a cruise on the Rhine River in Cologne?
Yes, taking a cruise on the Rhine River is a popular activity in Cologne, offering stunning views of the city skyline and the opportunity to see landmarks like the Cologne Cathedral from the water.
Is Cologne known for any specific type of cuisine?
Cologne is famous for its local dish ‘Kölsch,’ a unique beer brewed in Cologne, and other Rhineland specialties like Himmel un Ääd (black pudding with mashed potatoes and applesauce).
Are there any notable parks or gardens in Cologne?
Cologne offers several green spaces like the Rheinpark, the Flora and Botanical Garden, and the Stadtgarten, perfect for leisurely strolls and relaxation.
What shopping experiences can I find in Cologne?
Cologne’s shopping scene includes the bustling Schildergasse and Hohe Strasse, the Neumarkt Galerie, and the Belgian Quarter with its trendy boutiques and vintage shops.
Can I explore Cologne’s art and culture?
Absolutely! Explore Cologne’s vibrant art scene at the Ludwig Museum, the Museum of Applied Art, or the smaller galleries in the Belgian Quarter.
What are some family-friendly activities in Cologne?
Families in Cologne can enjoy the Cologne Zoo, the Odysseum Science Center, and the Chocolate Museum for a fun and educational experience.
Are there any day trips I can take from Cologne?
From Cologne, you can take day trips to the picturesque town of Bonn, the Ahr Valley known for its wine, or the Phantasialand theme park for an adventurous outing.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cologne
https://www.getyourguide.com/cologne-l19/
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